SIR JAMES SMITH’S
A CO-OPERATIVE TRUST
SCHOOL
HEADLINES
AUTUMN 2015
Sir James Smith’s Community School
Camelford
Cornwall PL32 9UJ
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sirjamessmiths.cornwall.sch.uk
Telephone: 01840 213274
Fax: 01840 212189
HEADTEACHER - JON LAWRENCE
Important dates for your diary:
• Start of Spring Term for students: Tuesday 5th January 2016
• INSET - training days for staff – school closed to students on:
Monday 4th January 2016
Monday 11th April 2016
Friday 1st July 2016
• Academic Review Days as follows:
Year 8
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Year 9 Options Evening
Year 11 Parents Evening
Year 7 Parents Evening
Year 8 Parents Evening
Year 10 Parents Evening
Year 6 Transition Days
Year 6 Parents Evening
Tuesday 19th January 2016
Thursday 4th February 2016
Thursday 25th February 2016
Thursday 17th March 2016
Thursday 21st April 2016
Thursday 12th May 2016
Monday 27th June and Tuesday 28th June 2016
Tuesday 28th June 2016
And some other dates:
• Late buses – Leave school at 4pm on Thursday:
Spring Term
Thursday 14th January to Thursday 11th February 2016
Summer Term
Dates to be advised
• Deep Learning Day (DLD): Thursday 10th March 2016 - this is where the normal
timetable is suspended for the day
• Activities Week: Monday 15th July to Friday 19th July 2016
• Year 10 Work Experience Week: Monday 15th July to Friday 19th July 2016
Further information regarding events is available by calling the school on 01840 213274.
Thank you
As we come to the end of 2015 I would like to thank parents/carers for
their continued support. As I have written before, the success of our
students depends on home and school working closely together. This
year I can remind parents/carers about the school’s on-line Learning
Gateway – it is so easy to go on-line and find out what has been
happening each day, including what homework has been set. There is already a large group
of parents/carers making use of the behaviour, attendance and assessment information in
regular conversations with their children. If you are unsure how to access the Learning
Gateway please contact school reception on 01840 213274 or email:
[email protected].
Merry Christmas from staff and governors and best wishes for the New Year. We look
forward to seeing our students return on Tuesday 5th of January 2016 for the first day of
the spring term.
Retro Rocket
The success of the school’s electric car has been phenomenal. Last January a
group of young people got together for the first time; little did they
realise by November they would be world champions.
Their commitment under the tutelage of Mr Langton has been infinite. But some of the
success goes to several generous supporters and sponsors. I would like to thank the
following for helping our students turn an aspiration into an achievement:
ADP Diamex
Dairy Crest
Highfield Motors
Kernow Properties
GCSE Results 2015
It is really good to be able to end this year on a high, provided this time
by a very positive RAISE report. RAISE is the report produced by Ofsted
and used by their inspectors. Although the summer seems such a long
time ago, it is only now that the government is releasing national data to
schools. In January, the performance tables will be made public.
Sir Jim’s RAISE report is very good and in many areas our 2015 results are significantly
above local and national averages. Here is a taster; the value added score of 1024 for our
students’ best 8 subjects places Sir Jim’s at the 16th percentile nationally; this means our
results were better than those in 84% of schools across England. Teaching and learning at
Sir Jim’s really is as good as any and better than most!
Drugs Education - Drugs Dog
On Friday 4th December the Police arrived at the start of period 4 with
Jet, the passive drugs dog. Jet had already been into Budehaven,
Bodmin, Liskeard and Wadebridge the same week as part of the
concerted effort by all the schools to push the message that drugs and
schools need to be kept well away from each other. This operational visit was the followup to assemblies conducted a few weeks ago.
Jet was put to work in the maths block. Each Year 11 class was visited, the students filed
out with their bags, coats and pencil cases past Jet. Year 10 science classes were next. In
total 6 students were picked out by the dog and then spoken to by one of the officers with
staff from Sir Jim’s in attendance. I am pleased to say no drugs were found at Sir Jim’s.
Across the five schools more than 1,000 students were checked by Jet with only 34
‘indications’ of a trace. Being indicated by Jet does not mean that the young person has
been in direct contact with drugs. However, the indication does suggest those students
have been in contact with another person or place where cannabis has been smoked. The
Police say that the ‘trace’ could be second, third or even fourth hand! This means it is
possible that neither they nor any of their close friends are involved, but friends of friends
might be.
I am pleased with this result. It shows that young people respect the message that we
should work together to keep our schools free from drugs.
Schools in North Cornwall combine forces – the official press release
Bodmin College, Sir James Smith’s School and Wadebridge School are
working in partnership to educate their students about substance misuse
and illegal drug taking.
Headteachers and staff are concerned about the potential damage these
substances may cause to the health and wellbeing of students and
believe that young people should be given information about the latest research and best
available advice. Providing education within the curriculum and using local agencies are
important strategies to deter young people from using illegal drugs.
During the autumn term the partnership will be working with Devon and Cornwall Police to
arrange for police trained passive drugs dogs and their handlers to take part in special
assemblies in each school. These assemblies are designed to warn students about the use
of recreational drugs and explain the harmful effects they can cause and so help deter
young people from using them in the first place. They will also provide information about
how passive drug dogs are used by the police.
A representative for the partnership said “It is vital that young people are made aware of
their vulnerability if they participate in illegal drug use and substance misuse. Giving
students the best life chances is central to the values of each School within the
partnership. Schools in the partnership are committed to sharing resources, joint policies
and excellent practices in order to combat such behaviour.”
All the schools in the partnership work closely with Devon and Cornwall Police who
support schools and colleges with both education and enforcement, in respect of
recreational drug use. This involves educating young people on the effects of drug use,
preventing young people from becoming involved or becoming victims of drug use and the
deterring and detection of drug use by young people. PC Pete Thompson, Youth
Intervention Officer for the area, is keen to support these schools as they continue to
develop shared approaches.
The initiative has been welcomed by Jane Black, Cornwall Council’s Head of Service Learning and Achievement, who said “It is really pleasing to see Headteachers working
with local agencies to help young people gain an understanding of safe behaviour to
ensure their healthy and successful future outcomes.”
Extremism and radicalisation
A few weeks ago assembly time was used by the Headteacher to address
extremism and radicalisation. Schools now have a legal duty – the
Prevent Strategy - to promote British values and stop young people
becoming or supporting terrorists or violent extremists.
Whist this is obviously aimed at Islamic extremism, it also encompasses any British based
extremist group including: The English Defence League; National Front; BNP: INLA; IRA, ALF
to name a few, who like other extremist organisations, can revert to extreme views and
conduct acts of violence to promote their cause.
Early in 2016 all staff at Sir Jim’s will receive training provided by Cornwall Council’s Lead
Officer in line with Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Throughout the course of the
year staff will then work with students on various aspects of the Prevent Strategy.
Duke of Edinburgh’s (DoE) Award Scheme – help needed for day walks
At the recent inaugural meeting the DoE supervisors were surprised by
the number of students wishing to start Bronze and Silver. This has put
pressure on the team when out and about supporting expeditions
because supervisors are in short supply.
If you are familiar with the beauty of map work, have a basic knowledge
of the geography of north Cornwall, own a pair of walking boots or trainers and like
walking through God’s own country, then why not give up the occasional day to help our
students.
We REALLY need people who can explain map-reading & navigation on the proposed day
walk – Saturday 19th March. If you know you can help, please contact Michelle K or Ruth
Henderson, DofE Co-ordinator via school.
ATTENDANCE
Just a reminder about the procedure to follow if your son/daughter is
absent:Parents/carers should phone the Attendance Officer, Kelly Crowther, on the
morning of absence – 01840 214150. There is an answer phone so please do
leave a message if there is no answer. Alternatively they may email:
[email protected]
If your son/daughter is absent for more than one day we would still appreciate a
quick call in the morning informing us of this. This is for safeguarding reasons
which we take seriously.
All students should aim to have 95% attendance or above. Home and school need to work
together to ensure attendance is as high as possible because there is a strong link between
good attendance and success in exams.
CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY
On the 15th until the 16th of September 2015, four students each from Sir
James Smith’s Camelford, Bodmin College, Fowey River Academy and
Looe Community Academy were invited by Downing College to experience
the wonders of Cambridge University.
For the students of Sir James Smith’s, the seven hour long journey, beginning at 6:30am
was not uneventful. This was due to the jokes, games and nonsense that was joined in by
Dr Dixon, the teacher who organised and led the trip.
Being treated to a trip to Cambridge University was an exciting opportunity for all of us, as
it allowed us to see one of the world’s best universities for ourselves. In our opinion, when
making choices about post-18 education visiting a university in person is far wiser than
making important decisions solely based on information and opinions that have come from
other people.
Upon our arrival at around midday, we all had lunch and put our bags in our own individual
rooms, which will be used by real Cambridge students
when their term begins. After that, we had a talk with
Lauren Payne, Downing College’s new School and
College Liaison Officer, about university life and what
the University of Cambridge can offer. We then went on
a tour of the beautiful Downing College itself. After the spectacular tour, and a fun creative
writing task, we had free time, during which we all went punting. For us, this was the
funniest part of the trip. Nobody had done it before and it was hilarious to watch everyone
struggle to move the boat. Fortunately, no one went overboard.
Later that evening, after drying off of course, we went out to ‘The Eagle’ pub in the city
centre. This pub was very interesting to us students, having studied science for years, as it
was where Francis Crick burst in and claimed he had “discovered the secret to life” in 1953
after coming up with his and James Watson’s proposal of the double-helix structure of
DNA. After we had drinks (soft drinks, of course, we weren’t all 18), we left and went to
bed in our own rooms at Downing College.
The next day as we toured around the grounds of both Downing College and Emmanuel
College, we were able to form our opinions about the grounds and the buildings; I
personally preferred Downing College because I preferred the aesthetics, taking a liking to
the architecture. Although some may say that it’s about the education (not how the
university looks), I would say that it’s important that you like the grounds of the university
you choose when considering the fact you are going to be living there for three or more
years - you want to enjoy your time at university.
Furthermore, it is not only the university itself you want to consider, but the surrounding
area - you have to think, would I enjoy living here for three years? Luckily for us, we had
plenty of opportunities to explore the
city of Cambridge, seeing all the shops,
going punting and experiencing the
culture of the city. Most of us felt it
was a lovely area with great
atmosphere, some now considering
Cambridge
as
their
post-18
destination.
We then were free to explore the Cambridge area for an hour or so in groups, and that was
very exciting, because we got to look in the library, do some souvenir shopping, get some
coffee etc. After the groups met up again, we got to look around in the Museum of
Archaeology and Anthropology, which had some genuinely fascinating exhibits, many of
which were easier to understand because of the knowledge we’d been taught in GCSE
Separate Science.
So, overall, this trip was a wonderful experience for everyone involved, and I think
everyone who went is immensely thankful for the fun and opportunities provided by both
Bodmin and Downing College.
This article was written with the help of Sir Jim's students who were lucky enough to go on
the Downing College trip - Damon Bell, Jas, Annalisa Jernqvist and Emma Davey.
CAREERS
Cornwall Careers Show
Year 10 students took a short trip to the Wadebridge Showground
recently to investigate careers from hospitality to agriculture, music to
manufacturing and construction to social care.
The whole year group attended the Cornwall Careers Show organised by
the Cornwall Learning Education Business Partnership. There they were
not only able to talk to representatives of colleges and sixth forms, businesses and training
companies, they were also given the opportunity to take part in a huge range of interactive
challenges.
The food and drink manufacturing stands were a great draw, where the young people
could make their own fruit pies, as well as healthy shakes and mocktails from soft drinks
and an assortment of fresh fruit. Also high on the entertainment list was a chance to ride a
‘land-based’ surfboard, try panning for gold or work out on an assortment of exercise
equipment.
The students joined with students from other schools from throughout the county at the
event, designed to prompt them into thinking deeply about their career pathways Post 16.
Among those enjoying the interactive opportunities provided were Thomas Connolly and
Oliver Sandercock who tried their hand at various activities in the ‘Food and Drink’ area of
the Show – and then enjoyed the fruits of their efforts.
CUC On
Year 8 students were recently asked to think creatively about their futures during a visit by
Network Ambassadors from the Combined Universities in Cornwall Outreach Network
(CUC On).
The CUC On is a part of a national scheme that aims to equip young people
with the facts about their possibilities for Higher Education, and make them
aware of the opportunities available to them.
During the event ambassadors helped students to fill out career aptitude
questionnaires using the CareerPilot website, and answered questions about
their own experiences in higher education.
Carol Ann Pippin (BA Hons Acting at Falmouth University) said: ‘It was wonderful to see the
student's curiosities spiking when they explored the different job sectors.’
The other Senior Ambassadors who delivered the session were also current students –
Hannah Johnson (BSc Geography, University of Exeter at the Penryn campus) and Alex
Morgan (BA Hons English with Creative Writing, Falmouth University.)
Ruth Bennetts, HE Network Coordinator for CUC On said: ‘The scheme is trying to raise
aspirations in young people and our trained Network Ambassadors are really great at
engaging and inspiring them. Sometimes, young people are just not aware of the
opportunities, pathways or choices available, so the work we are doing aims to get this
information across whilst exciting them about their future.’
Year Director for Year 8 at Sir Jim’s, Paul Boden, explained: ‘It was an absolute pleasure to
have the CUC Outreach Network working with our students at SJS. The students were
totally engaged with the Career Pilot website and they left the session with a real
enthusiasm for what the future has to offer for them in the South West.
‘Although the session was short and intense it was really well delivered to our students by
Ruth and her team of ambassadors. Our students really gained a lot by being able to chat
to actual university students about their future aspirations and ambitions. The
ambassadors really brought the session alive for them. The feedback from our Year 8
students was great and it was fantastic to hear them coming away from the session
discussing all of the different possible career paths.’
Among those Year 8 students exploring opportunities
offered by future careers, during sessions for her year
group was Janaya Burrell.
CATERING
Front and Beverage Programme Skills Day
Four Food Technology students were recently able to hone their skills in hospitality.
The quartet of Year 11 students – Zara Teague, Chloe
Hore, Ashleigh Harris and Anna Cornelius – participated
in a ‘Front and Beverage Programme Skills Day’ at
Cornwall College St Austell. This was delivered in the
College’s Cloisters Restaurant with the partnership of
the charity Springboard UK, which aims to provide young
people with the necessary skills required in the Catering
and Hospitality industries.
Along with students from other schools the four from Sir Jim’s participated in four practical
activities, including a Coffee Barista session and a ‘Best Dressed Table’ competition,
together with the making of ‘Mocktails’ and providing answers in a
Mathematics session linked to Catering and Hospitality. Apart from taking
the core subjects, Food Technology is one of the students’ chosen
subjects.
A finger buffet was provided by the food team at the College and served
by Catering students at St Austell.
FutureChef
Two creative catering students were chosen,
recently, to participate in the Local Finals of the
‘FutureChef’ competition.
‘FutureChef’ is run by the charity ‘Springboard’,
which promotes careers in the catering and
hospitality businesses. It runs through to a
national final and tests the skills of young cooks in
the 12-16 age range.
Sir Jim’s students Brittany Jackson and Zara Teague were among the regional finalists who
were faced with the challenge of providing a hot main course and hot/cold dessert for two
people for no more than £7, with all dishes to be plated in order to be judged.
Despite not winning the closely fought event, held at Cornwall College St Austell, they
managed to impress the judges with Brittany’s ‘Chicken in Creamed
Horseradish, served with mash potatoes, green beans and buttered carrot
batons’ and ‘Meringue nests filled with fruit and cream’ and Zara’s ‘Beef
lasagne with homemade pasta and salad with dressing and parmesan
shavings’ and Individual baked tiramisu’.
Subject leader for catering at Sir Jim’s, Philippa Keen, praised their efforts, which had to be
completed in the time limit of 90 minutes.
CHARITIES
Children in Need
Funds for this year’s ‘Children in Need’ appeal have been
boosted by the efforts of students and staff from a range of
departments at school.
The students, with the help of money from staff who dressed in mufti
for the occasion, raised just over £371 during a non-uniform day. A
number of the students, including Sophie Cousens from Year 7 (see
photo), swapped their uniform for clothing which had Pudsey and
‘Children in Need’ very much in mind.
Members of the cleaning staff at the school,
who are employed by the Glen Group, also
took on the charity challenge, dressing as
characters from popular children’s films - and
raising money for the appeal by being
sponsored for their colourful and creative
efforts. Pudsey also appeared in their midst as
well as ‘Snow White’ and a character from
‘Chicken Run’.
CHRISTMAS JUMPERS
With Christmas fast approaching students were given permission to wear festive jumpers instead of their normal black jumpers complete with school crest – during the last week of
term.
Ensuring that they entered the spirit of the season were a range of students who donned
jumpers sporting festive characters such as Rudolph and Father Christmas himself – or
cheery seasonal greetings.
During the week senior students were also selling raffle tickets, in aid of their Prom next
July, while a number of students who are studying their Personal and Social Education
course held a popular Bake Sale in aid of the school’s Support Centre.
Father Christmases and an elf adorned the festive jumpers of Callum Bosley of Year 11 and Josh Trewin of
Year 8, while Father Christmas and his traditional call of ‘Ho! Ho! Ho!’ were selected by Lewie Nichols, of
Year 8. Kyla Milner, Trinity Hasler and Ellie Lowe, all sported reindeers on their attire, Trinity’s jumper
resplendent with robins as well.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD
These awards not only look good on your CV, but they are also fun! They are
non-competitive and involve practical skills and hobbies as well as expeditions.
Any 14-25 year-old can take part. For more information see: www.DofE.org
Due to the very large numbers this year, the deadline for receiving enrolment
and consent forms was Friday 18th December; unfortunately we will not be able to accept
any late-comers.
If there are any parents/carers with some knowledge of maps and navigation
and an interest in being involved, please contact Michelle K or Ruth Henderson,
DofE Co-ordinator via school. Training will start at the end of January.
Ruth is in IT1 most Tuesdays during 2nd break if anyone needs any help or
advice regarding DofE.
FACEBOOK
As a school we have taken a leap of faith into the arena of social media launching a
facebook page. With new content every week in the form of pictures, news and
events we are celebrating some of our successes.
Our use of this interactive media channel is very much in its infancy as we
cross-check photo permissions and agree policies for new content.
Over the coming weeks and months we hope to identify and take full advantage of social
media to promote our school, celebrate our students and keep our stakeholders informed
of what is going on.
https://www.facebook.com/SirJamesSmiths/
FINANCE
Payment for School Trips/School Uniform
Due to the recent closure of the banks in Camelford, please remember we can
no longer accept cash/cheques to pay for school trips and school uniform.
Payment must be made by logging on to the Schoolmoney website via
www.schoolmoney.co.uk with the priority no. 1 parent/carer mobile telephone number
and e-mail address together with password.
If you do not have access to a computer or smartphone, payment can be made with your
debit/credit card by telephoning the School Finance Office direct on 01840 214154. The
School Shop will still accept coins for small purchases such as pens, rulers, sketchbooks and
revision guides etc.
Free School Meals
Did you know…just registering your child for Free School Meals means
that the School gets extra money for all our students? Register now to
make sure we don’t miss out.
The Government is giving money to schools to help children from lower
income families do their very best. This funding is called a ‘Pupil
Premium’.
Sir James Smith’s Community School receives £935 for each child registered for Free
School Meals.
With this money we could arrange one to one tuition, provide a range of intervention
programmes and provide a wider range of enrichment activities. If you are registered for
Free School Meals you could also receive subsidised Music lessons and Post-16 Bursary
funding. There may well be a range of other benefits available.
Please register to make sure your child and others in their class don’t miss out.
How does it work?
1. First, check if you qualify – it is not just if you are unemployed, so please look at the list
below.
2. Registering is really quick and easy – if you think you qualify complete the on-line form
at www.cornwall.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools-and-colleges/school-meals/.
3. If you want your child to have a free, healthy meal at lunchtime that’s great – they will
get the free meal (saving you more than £400 a year), extra benefits and the School gets
£935.
4. If you don’t want your child to have the school meals they can continue as normal – as
long as you qualify and are registered, the School still gets £935 extra.
No one will know you have registered and it will not affect any other benefits you are
claiming. The Cashless Catering System will, on a daily basis, automatically allocate the
appropriate accounts with the free meal amounts. Students with Free Meal Entitlements
remain anonymous at all times as all account types are accessed in the exact same manner
regardless as to whether paid for or not.
Do you qualify?
You can register your child for Free School Meals if you get any of these benefits:
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA-IR)
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit, provided they are not entitled to Working Tax
Credit and have an annual income (as assessed by HM Revenue &
Customs) that does not exceed £16,190
• Working tax credit ‘run-on’ – the payment someone may receive for
a further four weeks after they stop qualifying for Working tax
Credit.
Students can also register for Free School Meals if they get any of these benefits
themselves.
Come and talk to us if you’re not sure.
How to Register
• Go to Cornwall Council website – www.cornwall.gov.uk
• Click onto Education and Learning
• Click onto Apply for Free School Meals
• Fill in Free School Meals Eligibility
• Submit form
If you do not have access to the internet at home, please contact us and we will arrange for
you to use a School computer.
FIRST AID
Managing Medicines
Our Managing Medicines Policy now states that all parents/carers wishing their
child to have medication in school i.e. Paracetamol, Ibuprofen etc, must send in
a letter of authority together with a box which contains the medication required.
Any medication from the GP must come in the original container with the correct
dosage labelled as dispensed. Could I also remind you that under no circumstances should
students carry their own pain killers with them.
If changes occur to your child’s health, please could you let us know in writing so that we
can keep our records up to date.
School Nurse
Your local school nursing team has a regular school nurse drop-in clinic on a Thursday
during 2nd break and an appointment-based clinic during fourth & fifth
period. During the drop-in sessions, students are able to access a range
of health information from the nurse.
If you would like to know more about specific issues that the school nursing
team can offer support in, please contact 01288 320152.
Minor ailments and first aid needs will continue to be addressed by the designated First
Aider on site, Mrs Sally Mason.
GOVERNORS – RUTH KROLIK – CHAIR OF GOVERNORS
Governor Vacancies
There is currently one vacancy on the Governing Board for a Parent
Governor. As ever, there are a large number of changes to how
education will develop in the future. There are some very exciting
opportunities to improve how all of our young people are educated over the next few
years, as well as the challenge of making the most of the money we receive from
Government. The future of our communities depends on how the young people develop
into the next generation of adults.
As a Governor, your input can really make a difference. If you are interested please contact
the Clerk to Governors, Judith Knock – [email protected] for an
application form, or alternatively collect one from the School Reception. Completed
applications are to be returned to school no later than Tuesday 19th January 2016.
GREENPOWER TEAM
The super-speedy Greenpower team from Sir Jim's are now
International Champions – after a superb weekend of kit car racing
at the Rockingham Motor Speedway track in Corby.
The team, guided by the school’s Subject Leader for Art, Ben
Langton, powered their way to the Greenpower International Finals after battling in style
against opposition in local and regional heats. At Rockingham, over a weekend of racing,
the team members triumphed over not only home-grown British kit car rivals, but also
teams from around the world, from America to Poland and South Africa to Ireland.
The team, who have worked on their car, the ‘Retro Rocket’, since January, returned to
Cornwall with an array of trophies, medals and winners’ wreaths. Not only was theirs the
first kit car home in the finals on Saturday, they also then won the endurance race on the
Sunday, totting up the most overall mileage. Their aim was to travel as far as possible in
one and a half hours, swapping drivers every half hour, and conserving enough battery
energy to gain the most mileage at the best speed.
The jubilant team comprised current and past students from Sir Jim’s.
Celebrating at school on Monday were the current students – Toby Alford,
William Hooper, Tom Davis, Dan Blackwell, Isla Symons, Harvey Symons,
Alex Ferguson and Alex Quinn. Past students, who left in July after completing their GCSEs,
who have participated in ‘Retro Rocket’s’ great success include Peter Alford, George
Hooper and Louis Cress.
Mr Langton, who brought Greenpower to the school for the first time this year, praised the
positive attitude of his team, who overtook their rivals on the last lap to win one of their
trophies. He also highlighted how beneficial the whole project is, encompassing subjects
such as mathematics, science, engineering and technology, in the building and driving of
the kit car.
He also extended thanks to the sponsors of the team – Dairy Crest, Kernow Properties,
ADP Diamex and Highfield Motors - and said that the team would now be set on building a
new car for next year's Greenpower races.
Headteacher, Jon Lawrence, said of the team’s achievement: "This shows just how
talented our students are. Sir Jim’ is a small state comprehensive up against the might of
very large schools, many of them private and some of them with superb engineering
departments. This was when David beat Goliath!”
Displaying their trophies and medals following their International Greenpower win at the
weekend are the Sir James Smith’s team of Alex Ferguson and Tom Davis (back row) and
Isla Symons, Harvey Symons, Toby Alford, Alex Quinn, William Hooper and Dan Blackwell
(front row).
Vintage Volante - Just a sneak preview!
Work has started on the new scratch built Greenpower racing car "Vintage Volante".
The team is aiming to build the car in time for the test race at Goodwood in April. The
team has some prospective sponsors for this season and are on the lookout for more
interested parties.
KART CHAMPION – ALEX QUINN
Press Release – 6th November 2015
NATIONAL KART CHAMPION QUINN WINS RSF BACKING FOR KARTS-TO-CARS STEP UP
Camelford teenager set to join Fortec Motorsports for 2016 MSA Formula campaign
Multiple British kart champion Alex Quinn has won
Racing Steps Foundation backing to make the step up
from karts to cars in the 2016 MSA Formula
Championship.
The 14 years-old CRG factory driver from Camelford in
Cornwall scooped the fully-funded drive at the end of a
three day, 10-driver assessment staged by the not-forprofit Foundation last month.
The rigorous evaluation - conducted by RSF co-ordinator Derek Walters in conjunction with
iZone, Porsche Human Performance Centre and Fortec Motorsports - involved
psychometric and simulator tests, a comprehensive physiological assessment and a day's
on-track evaluation at Rockingham.
Quinn - who picked up the racing bug from one-time, amateur rally driver dad Sam - will
race in the junior, one-make, British Touring Cars support series with Fortec.
The 30-race FIA-accredited Formula 4 championship features Mygale carbon fibre chassis
powered by 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost engines with sequential paddle-shift transmissions.
Quinn's winter test programme gets underway later this month.
"Alex impressed the entire team of assessors with his all-round capabilities," said RSF coordinator Derek Walters.
"His times on the simulator and in the MSA Formula car at Rockingham were competitive
from the word go and not so far off the datum set by one of our more senior drivers.
"Considering it was his first time in a single-seater, his feedback and set-up understanding
were impressive too.
"It will be a tough championship for Alex to cut his teeth on but we'll give him all the
support he needs to hit the ground running."
HEAD GIRL AND HEAD BOY
Staff at Sir Jim's have elected the school’s Head Boy and Girl and their
deputies for the current academic year.
The quartet were selected from the Year 11 senior prefect team, and will
carry out a series of duties throughout the year, and will represent Sir
Jim’s on a number of occasions.
Head Boy is Callan Jago while Head Girl is Annalisa Jernqvist. Deputy Head Boy is Alex
Ferguson and Deputy Head Girl is Zara Teague.
They were congratulated by the Head of Year 11, Science teacher Ed Kirk, who is pictured
with the new appointees – Annalisa, Alex, Zara and Callan (left to right).
Headteacher, Jon Lawrence, said: It was a tough job
having to choose just four from a very long list of
sensible and hard-working students. The senior students
will be great ambassadors for the school and our local
community. Their first public role will be to represent the
school at the forthcoming Remembrance Day
celebrations. I am immensely proud of them and all our
students and I hope mums and dads are equally
delighted at their achievement.
MATHS DEPARTMENT
Parent/Carer Maths Club
The next parent/carer maths club will be on Tuesday 12th January from
4:00pm until 6:00pm. The aim is to work through mathematical
methods we use in school today so that you can help your children at
home.
This is a drop in clinic, so come along at any point between those times, or stay for the
whole session. If you have any queries, please contact Mr Parsloe on 01840 213274.
We look forward to seeing you.
MOVEMBER
A trio of motivated teachers at Sir Jim's moved into November with great
motivation – to cultivate macho moustaches in aid of charity.
Subject leader for DT Gerard McMahon, Science teacher and Year Director for Year 11 Ed
Kirk and Mathematics teacher Terry Parsloe, have banded together as ‘Mo Bros’ to grow
their moustaches. Their Sir Jim’s team are fund-raising as
part of the Movember Foundation’s desire to tackle
some of the health issues faced by men, such as prostate
cancer; testicular cancer, poor mental health and
physical inactivity.
They set-up a fund-raising web-page and were aiming for
an impressive number of donations and a much more
luxuriant look by the end of the month.
REMEMBRANCE DAY
Remembrance Day was marked at school, on Wednesday 11th
November, by a traditional rendition of the ‘Last Post’ by Year 11
student, Emma Davey.
Emma, who is a member of Camelford Town Band,
was assisted by fellow Year 11 student, Holly Kalicki.
The school fell silent for two minutes after Emma
played ‘The Last Post’ in the School Hall.
In the run-up to 11th November, members of the
school’s Senior Prefect team went around the school
during registration periods, selling Poppies and other
Remembrance Day items, in aid of the annual British
Legion appeal.
SCHOOL GARDEN
As winter progresses and the autumn clearing up comes to an end we
reflect on last summer’s achievements and ponder next year’s season.
Last spring we hatched two chicken eggs - that was fun; they must have
been the most handled and photographed chicks ever! They are now fully
grown cockerels and can be viewed in separate hen houses in the garden.
Goldie, a Buff-Orpington-cross, is a particularly spectacular specimen worth
seeing.
We are late planting this winter, due to quite a large cleaning up program;
broad-beans and garlic should be in which has not happened quite on the
scale we had hoped.
Bird boxes around the school grounds will soon be inspected and repaired and new ones
put up.
Canes are now being cut and will soon be advertised for sale in reception along with some
plants if anyone would like any, to raise money for the garden.
Could all parents/carers remind their children that the gardening club is
every Thursday from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and to sign up with Mike Sherry in
the science prep-room.
SCHOOL PROM
Ahead of their School Prom, which will take place in the summer of next year, the
Year 11 students have been busy baking, and serving.
They held a ‘Cake Sale’, from a stall based outside the school’s Learning Resource
Centre, recently, and have another such event planned for
later in the school year.
The money will go towards the Prom, scheduled to be
held at Bowood Golf and Country Club in Camelford, on
8th July 2016.
Among those students running the stall, which sold a
steady stream of cakes over two days, were Brittany
Jackson and Summer Roworth.
SIMS LEARNING GATEWAY
This term, we have launched SIMS Learning Gateway, an online portal to give
parents/carers and teachers remote access to some aspects of the School’s
Information Management System (SIMS), including points awarded for
rewards and behaviour, details of homework assignments and attendance.
Teaching staff have been recording homework assignments on SIMS for the
past term and use by parents/carers to monitor homework, rewards and
behaviour points has increased week on week since the launch.
Initial login details were sent out by letter in October and all users are advised to set a
secret password recovery question and answer as our passwords will expire in the new
year. If you misplace your log in details or are having trouble connecting, please get in
touch.
https://data.scomis.org/9084141/default.aspx
SPORT
The start of the 2015/16 academic year has been very busy for the schools PE department.
It has been great to see so many students involved in school sport and representing SJS.
Cricket - Indoor
This term SJS has hosted a number of North Cornwall Indoor Cricket
tournaments. It is a real feather in the SJS cap to be asked by the Cornwall
Cricket Board to host these tournaments and recognises the department’s
commitment to cricket.
Tournaments have been held for both Year 7 boys and girls. The boys entered
two teams and came up against two sides from Wadebridge and a Bude side. The boys
battled well to eventually finish 3rd and 5th.
The Year 8 girls put on an excellent display of batting and this power hitting gave them a
firm base in all the games they played against Launceston and Wadebidge.
The highlight however, was the Year 7 girls who showed their class as they defeated two
Wadebridge sides to claim the title 'North Cornwall Indoor Cricket Champions' and qualify
for the Cornwall finals in February 2016.
Further tournaments for the Year 10 girls and boys and the Year 8 boys are scheduled for
January 2016.
Cross Country
East Cornwall Cross Country
SJS sent a small but strong team to the East Cornwall Cross Country
Championships in November. In good conditions the team competed
over the short course at Liskeard school.
The athletes performed extremely well with the following achieving top 10 results:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Boys
9 – Jayden Daniels
10th - Dylan Bishop
2nd – Harry Page
5th – Josh Bowker
7th – Dan Blackwell
7th – Sennen Brook
th
Girls
2 – Mia Beard
8th – Alice Chanter
2nd – Jasmine Greenaway
3rd – Amy Randall
6th – Lucy Musgrave
3rd – Nicole Farrell
nd
The next event will be the Cornwall Schools Cross Country Championship. SJS will be
targeting team medals and individual selection to the Cornwall team for the English
schools Championships.
Equestrian
Four equestrian stars, who represented Sir Jim's in a recent competition,
emerged from a day of show jumping and cross country with honours.
The quartet of Michael and Jasmine Greenaway, James Page and Charlotte
Harris, entered the Inter-schools Show-jumping and Cross Country
competition held at Chiverton Cross Country Park at Zelah, near Truro, and
emerged in third place overall.
Calling their team ‘The Jumping Jims’ they bagged third place against 23 other schools,
who each provided four riders. Michael and Jasmine competed in the 80cm (2’6”) class
while James and Charlotte successfully entered the 70cm (2’3”) class.
Jasmine and James came fifth individually in
their respective classes, with Michael and
Charlotte also picking up individual places
within the top 12 of their class.
Their rosettes were presented to them
during their respective year group
assemblies in school, Michael and James
being Year 10 students and Jasmine and
Charlotte being in Year 8.
Primary School Sport
It was a great privilege that SJS were asked to host the North Cornwall
Primary School Swimming Gala. As host we were required to provide
young leaders to carry out the roles of gala judges, timekeepers,
recorders and result analysis’s. The SJS group of 15 young leaders was
drawn from the Year 9 ‘Hidden Talent’ group and performed very well in what proved to
be very hot, humid and at times a stressful environment. The SJS leaders did a great job
and received many plaudits from the many visiting primary schools.
Rugby
The rugby season has once again exceeded expectations and arguably been
the most successful in recent history. Competitive fixtures were played in
all year groups and each year group was entered into the Cornwall Cup for
the first time in the school’s history.
The Year 11 side had a good season, narrowly losing to Newquay Treviglas in the cup and
having good games against Wadebridge and Bude, losing to the later by just 5 points.
The Year 10 side competed for the first time and it was great to see a number of new
players in this side; despite losing to Wadebridge in the cup they proved their worth with a
commendable performance and commitment over the season.
The Year 8 side performed well and earnt excellent victories over both Bude and
Wadebridge beating both sides by over 20 points. They were narrowly defeated by Bodmin
in the cup.
The successful Year 8 side who beat both Bude and Wadebridge. In action against Wadebridge above.
The stand out team however, was the Year 9 side. They had a memorable cup run beating
Looe and edging out Newquay Treviglas to reach the quarter final. They eventually lost out
to last year’s beaten finalists Newquay Tretherras but not before given them a scare.
Additionally the team comfortable beat Bude and were disappointed that Wadebridge
cancelled their fixture, probably having heard how successful SJS had been!!
In all this season saw 13 rugby fixtures played, with SJS winning 6. A great record
considering the scale of the opposition. In addition to the school fixtures, three inter house
competitions were held, with Landeme coming out on top overall.
Get on the ladder to learning for English,
maths and computing at your local Adult
Education centre in Camelford
Whether you are a beginner, want a skills top up or are
interested in a GCSE, Adult Education can help.
We have English, maths and computing courses at every level and
most of them are FREE!
English and Maths
Contact Julie Fisher on 01288 359689 to arrange a free skills check.
IT Skills for Employability
Contact Sara Rance on 01288 356302 to find out more
Alternatively you can drop in on a Wednesday and Thursday
from 9.30 am – 12.30 pm to find out more. We are located at the
Camel Centre, Sir James Smith’s School, Dark Lane, Camelford
Opening Times
Fees & Charges
With so many people to serve and so much
to offer, we try to keep our doors open for
as long as possible. With an ever changing
timetable of activities and events being
hosted all year round, we advise that you
get in touch for further details of what’s
on and when, to avoid disappointment!
Swimming Pool (Prices per hour/session)
How to Find Us
Camelford
Leisure Centre
Adult Swim
£4.00
Junior Swim
£3.00
Pool Fun
£4.20 Adult £3.00 Child
Aquafit
£5.30
Adult Coached Activities
£4.70
Junior Coached Activities
£3.20
Sports Hall Activities (Prices per hour/session)
By Car: We are located adjacent to
Sir James Smith’s Community School on
the B3266, just minutes from the A39.
To find us by SatNav enter PL32 9UE.
There is ample free parking.
By Bus: Camelford is served by First Group
Travel; bus numbers 212 & 213. For further
information, or to check bus routes and
timetables please visit
www.travelinesw.com
Boscastle
Adult Pay & Play Activities
Junior Pay & Play Activities
Sports Hall Hire
Badminton Court Hire
Equipment Hire
Shower (Only)
Locker Fees
£4.20
£2.80
£40.00
£9.80
£1.20
£2.50
£0.20
Fitness Studio (Price per hour/session)
Adult
Gym Induction
Gold Member Induction
£4.50
£15.00
FREE
Bude
Membership Prices 1st January 2016
Camelford
B3266
A39
£29.00
£40.00
£20.00
£30.00
£45.00
£12.00
+£6.00pp
+£5.00
Bodmin
Camelford Leisure Centre
Station Road, Camelford, Cornwall, PL32 9UE
T. 01840 213188 / E. [email protected]
Twitter. @CamelfordLCntr
Facebook. Camelford Leisure Centre 01840 213188
www.camelfordleisurecentre.co.uk
Design: Sames + Littlejohns
Wadebridge
(Monthly Direct Debit)
Single
Couple
Single Concession
Couple Concession
Family up to 4
Under 18’s
Gold Membership
One Month Only
Christmas
Timetable
19 December 2015
— 3 January 2016
Version 1
Christmas Swimming
Fitness Suite
Saturday 19th Dec
Tuesday 22nd Dec
Christmas Day
Tuesday 29th Dec
New Year’s Day
Opening Hours
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
Members Only*
We are closed New Year’s Day!
Over 50’s*
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
09:30 – 14:00
Leisure Swim*
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
14:00 – 16:00
Pool Fun
09:30 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
We are open for a short time
on Christmas Day morning
so come and join us for a
Christmas swim and a mince
pie!
07:00 – 07:30
08:30 – 09:30
The Fitness Suite will be open
during swimming opening
hours throughout the Christmas
period. Last entry will be
30mins before closing time.
13:15 – 15:15
Pool Fun
15:30 – 18:00
Leisure Swim*
Sunday 20th Dec
09:00 – 10:00
Lengths*
10:00 – 11:00
Parent & Baby
11:00 - 11:45
Lengths*
12:00 – 14:00
Pool Fun
14:15 - 16:00
Leisure Swim*
Monday 21st Dec
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
9:00 - 11:00
Christmas Swim
Boxing Day
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
09:30 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
13:15 – 15:15
15:30 – 18:00
Pool Fun
Leisure Swim*
We are closed on Boxing Day!
Wednesday 30th Dec
Wednesday 23rd Dec
Sunday 27th Dec
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
Lengths
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
10:00 – 11:00
Parent & Baby
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
11:00 - 11:45
Lengths*
09:45 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
12:00 – 14:00
14:15 - 16:00
Pool Fun
Leisure Swim
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
09:00 – 10:00
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
09:45 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
08:30 – 09:15
Over 50’s*
09:15 – 12:15
Leisure Swim*
12:15 – 13:15
Lunchtime
Lengths*
13:30 – 15:30
Pool Fun
15:45 – 18:30
Leisure Swim*
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
08:30 – 09:15
Over 50’s*
07:00 – 07:30
18:30 – 19:30
Aquafit
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
09:15 – 13:15
Leisure Swim
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
Lengths*
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
13:30 – 15:30
Pool Fun
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
09:30 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
15:45 – 19:30
Leisure Swim
09:45 – 12:00
Leisure Swim*
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
19:30 – 20:30
Lengths*
12:00 – 13:00
Lunchtime
Lengths*
13:15 – 15:15
Pool Fun
13:15 – 15:15
Pool Fun
15:30 – 18:00
Leisure Swim*
15:30 – 18:00
Leisure Swim
19:30 – 20:30
PLEASE NOTE: Children under
8yrs must be accompanied by an
adult (16yrs+). Last entry into the
swimming pool is ½ hour before
the end of each session.
13:15 – 15:15
Pool Fun
15:30 – 18:00
Leisure Swim
Christmas Eve
13:15 – 15:15
Pool Fun
Monday 28th Dec
15:30 – 18:00
Leisure Swim
07:00 – 07:30
Members Only*
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
New Year’s Eve
Members only - Please make sure
your have your key fob to access this
session!
* These sessions are supervised
from reception by a single
lifeguard
We wish you and your
family a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year!
Saturday 2nd Jan
07:30 – 08:30
Lengths*
08:30 – 09:30
Over 50’s*
09:30 – 13:45
14:00 – 16:00
Leisure Swim*
Pool Fun
Sunday 3rd Jan
09:00 – 10:00
Lengths*
10:00 – 11:00
Parent & Baby
11:00 - 11:45
Lengths*
12:00 – 14:00
Pool Fun
14:15 - 16:00
Leisure Swim*
Looking to
get fit this
New Year?
Members Only*
Why not take out a membership
here at the Leisure Centre and
get unlimited use of the pool
and gym during public times
amongst many other member
benefits ? You could also go one
better than that and upgrade
to a GOLD membership and
gain unlimited access to all of
our coached fitness classes.
All this for just £6 on top of the
standard membership price.
Inductions
By appointment. Please ring the
Leisure Centre for more infomation.
Sports Hall
Availability
The Sports Hall is available for
hire during swimming opening
hours throughout the Christmas
period. The hall can be hired for
activities such as badminton,
table tennis and many more.
Please ask a member of staff
for more information.
Fitness Classes
Circuits
Monday 21st Dec 18:00 - 18:45
Core Fitness
Unfortunately we won’t be
able to run Core Fitness over
Christmas due to closing early
on Wednesdays. The session
will resume in the New Year.
For up-to-date information about the latest activities,
events, opening times, and everything else in-between,
feel free to call into the centre, telephone 01840 213188
or visit our website at www.camelfordleisurecentre.co.uk
If you would like this copy of Headlines in a different format, please contact the
school.